1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 453 kg more than 1976 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Ford Taunus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (115 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taunus | 3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
